BY ALICE T CAMPBELL
An Australian Paediatric Surgical Specialist Team from Canberra Hospital completed 26 life-changing surgeries at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara during their April visit.
A statement from the Ministry of Health and Medical Service (MHMS) said working alongside local surgeon Dr. Stallone Kohia, the team reviewed 44 patients and carried out complex procedures, including emergency surgery on a four-day-old baby with a severe bowel anomaly.
MHMS said the infant is recovering well.
Dr. Kohia praised the visiting specialists for their ongoing support, noting that their missions not only improved patient care but also strengthened training for local doctors and nurses.
Senior Surgeon Dr. Celine Hamid highlighted the partnership’s impact, with nearly 378 children treated since the program began in 2015.
Australian High Commissioner Jeff Roach welcomed the collaboration, saying it delivers immediate benefits for children while building local capacity.
MHMS said most surgeries carried out by the team focused on paediatric urology, particularly hypospadias correction, and all patients are reported to be recovering well.
The next mission is scheduled for October 10–19, 2026, with plans to expand outreach to provincial areas, prioritising burn treatment.
The team’s work was supported by donations from partners including the John James Foundation, Rotary Club of Hall, Johnson & Johnson, Omnigon, and Coloplast.
Photo credit: MHMS
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